Synonyms for

Rub

Verb / rʌb / Another word for rub — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to apply pressure and move a hand or an object back and forth against a surface

Synonyms & similar words

scratch fret wipe hitch fray chafe itch snag hangup massage scrub polish buff stroke caress fondle graze pat press smooth wipe clean shine shoe swab traverse carom skip

Synonyms by register

Formal

abrade friction polish

Informal

scrub buff wipe clean

Literary

caress stroke

Antonyms

stop cease halt discontinue abstain refrain

Common collocations

  • rub shoulders
  • rub it in
  • rub the wrong way
  • rub out
  • rub down
  • rub off
  • rub a dub

Word family

noun rub
verb rub
adjective rubbing

Usage note

The verb 'rub' can imply gentle friction or vigorous scrubbing. 'Rub someone the wrong way' means to annoy or irritate them.

Example sentences

  1. I rub my eyes when I'm tired.
  2. I rub sunscreen onto my skin before going out in the sun.
  3. I rub my dog's belly to make her happy.
  4. I rub a cloth over the table to clean it.
  5. I rub my sore muscles with a heating pad.

Quotes

  • A diamond is just a lump of coal that stuck to its job, you see. - Minnie Pearl
  • If you find yourself in a hole, the first thing to do is stop digging. - Will Rogers
  • We are all worms, but I do believe that I am a glow-worm. - Winston Churchill

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